Lou Dawg's Southern BBQ - North Bay

If you are looking for a place with a unique atmosphere and the aroma of authentic wood smoke, then Lou Dawg's Southern BBQ in the city of North Bay is exactly what you need. This colorful gastronomic space is where American Southern traditions meet the hospitality for which Canada is famous.

The establishment specializes in classic Slow & Low BBQ: they serve tender pork ribs, juicy brisket, and famous pulled pork. Beyond meat delicacies, the bar surprises with bold vegetarian options, offering a unique jackfruit poutine and tempeh sandwiches, making it popular with all kinds of groups.

The interior is designed in a cozy pub style, featuring frequent live music and fresh beer always on tap. The high rating of the establishment confirms not only the quality of the cuisine but also the level of service, turning an ordinary lunch into a full-scale gastronomic journey.

To inquire about table bookings or current promotions, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason to visit Lou Dawg's Southern BBQ is, of course, to sample the authentic menu. Be sure to try the signature ribs, which literally "fall off the bone," or order the chicken tacos. If you're open to experimentation, check out the fried cauliflower with spicy sauce—this appetizer is a favorite among regulars.

In addition to the food, you can have a great time at the bar, choosing from a wide range of local beers and wines. On weekends, the restaurant transforms into a music venue: live performances create that authentic Southern vibe where music and BBQ are inseparable. It's an ideal spot for both a lively dinner with friends and a quiet family evening in a cozy setting.

Lou Dawg's Southern BBQ is located in the heart of the city at 167 Main St W. Thanks to its central location, the restaurant is easily accessible on foot from almost anywhere in the business center or the waterfront area. For those traveling by car, street parking is available nearby.

If you plan to use public transport, there are bus stops serving major city routes just a couple of minutes' walk from the entrance. From North Bay Airport (YYB), a taxi or rental car ride will take only 15–20 minutes, making the bar an excellent spot for your first dinner after arrival.

The story of this location under the Lou Dawg's Southern BBQ banner began in late 2019. The restaurant took over a building on Main Street that previously housed the well-known Old Chicago establishment. Despite being a relatively young project, it quickly earned the trust of local foodies by focusing on the quality of classic smoked meats.

In its early years, the team worked hard on their recipes, striving to perfect their brisket and rib-cooking techniques. Over time, the establishment became more than just a restaurant; it turned into an important cultural landmark for the city by introducing a tradition of live music performances on weekends, significantly livening up the downtown atmosphere.

By 2024, the bar had secured its place on lists of top BBQ spots in Ontario according to popular travel portals. The evolution of the menu is also noteworthy: it became one of the few BBQ restaurants in the region to offer full vegan alternatives that are just as flavorful as their meat counterparts.

To enjoy the Southern cuisine at a leisurely pace, it is recommended to set aside 1 to 2 hours for your visit. This is plenty of time to sample the main menu items, appreciate the craft drinks, and soak in the cozy atmosphere.

If you're stopping by for a quick business lunch or planning to grab a takeaway order, you'll need about 30–60 minutes. However, if your visit falls on a weekend evening when there is live music, your stay could easily last the entire evening.

The establishment's schedule allows you to drop by for a late lunch or a late-night cocktail. The restaurant is closed on Monday, but on other days the doors open at 11:00. On Thursdays, the bar stays open until midnight, and on Friday and Saturday, until 01:00 AM, which is perfect for those who enjoy late-night outings.

On Sunday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, the venue closes at 10:00 PM. Please note that operating hours may change on public holidays, so it's recommended to check for current information on the official website or social media before visiting.

Its downtown location makes Lou Dawg's Southern BBQ an excellent starting point for further exploring local attractions. A walk around the neighborhood will allow you to see both historical monuments and modern recreational areas on the waterfront.